The former Romanian national team doctor, Pompiliu Popescu (75), has strongly criticized Ilie Dumitrescu for accepting the position of “Player Transition Manager” within FRF.
Pompiliu Popescu Criticizes Ilie Dumitrescu
The national team doctor from 1990 to 2016 labeled Dumitrescu's decision as a “cowardly and weak gesture.”
“Ilie Dumitrescu should not have chosen FRF, as he was part of the breath of the Golden Generation. He has brought shame to football and the Golden Generation with this cowardly and weak gesture. I say this!”
Dan Petrescu has received multiple offers during 'Burloiu's' tenure but has refused them. There are many other examples, such as with Dorinel Munteanu, Gheorghe Hagi, and even Gica Hagi up until now. Why until now?”
“Because the time has come, at the age of 61... He must do what he should have done with the generations of footballers he has formed and nurtured. He is the one who should train the players!”, Pompiliu Popescu declared, according to iamsport.ro.
Pompiliu Popescu, Crucial for the Golden Generation
One of the longest-serving members of the national team staff from 1990 to 2016, Pompiliu Popescu was an essential figure for the Golden Generation.
He worked with the tricolors at three World Cup tournaments (1990, -1994, 1998) and three European Championships (1996, 2000, 2008).
Dumitrescu's move to FRF is a slap in the face for the Golden Generation. What does this say about his commitment to the legacy he was part of? Is he just chasing a paycheck now?